Hale Irwin’s success after age 50 on the professional tour is unprecedented. But there are lessons to be learned for amateurs, too.
For starters, amateur golfers older than 50 may have to adjust their game and their swing, Irwin said, and should become comfortable with that.
“There are so many older people that are so disturbed by their lack of distance, it mentally affects the rest of their game,” Irwin said. “But I see some of the best older players who are just so steady. They hit it right down the middle 180 yards and hit it up around the green and just chip and putt you to death. Those kind of people just drive you nuts.”
Irwin, an all-Big Eight Conference defensive back during his football days at Colorado, noticed a loss of strength in his legs after he turned 50. To compensate, he learned to use his upper body to a greater extent during his swing. At age 59, he continues to beat 50-year old rookies on the senior tour.
“I know my legs aren’t half as strong as they used to be,” Irwin said. “I used to really use my legs in my swing, maybe detrimentally so. Now my swing is probably more in balance than it’s ever been. The upper and bottom halves are working better, more harmoniously.
“You have to know your game. Part of that game is that, as you get older, you’re probably going to lose some of that strength. So instead of using that stiff shaft, you might want to use a regular shaft that helps propel the ball out there a little bit.
“If you’re having some issues with putting, change your putting style, perhaps. Or you might try different equipment.”
Irwin has changed clubs. Regarded as one of the best long-iron shotmakers to play the game, he has now replaced his 2-iron and 3-iron with two hybrid, rescue-type utility clubs.
He recommends everybody take advantage of the new technology and use a fat-headed, thin-faced driver. Not only are high-tech drivers longer off the tee, they are also more forgiving with a bigger sweet spot.
But, Irwin cautions, mastering the fundamentals is as important as ever.
“You have to have relatively good fundamentals to use today’s technology,” he said. “There are a lot of things that people can learn by watching tour players on TV. Look at the tempo and the balance that these fellows all have. Look at how their hands work around the greens. Their hands are firm.”
Irwin had one last suggestion: Get in good physical shape.
Or, as he put it, “moderate some of your excesses.”
